1995 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500

Kawasaki’s Vulcan 1500 is a study in excess. Excessive torque, that is. But then, Kawasaki has never been one to be out-done in the power department. Remember the 750-H2 triple? The original Z-1? How about the Ninja 900 or the ZX-10 and ZX-11? Memorable bikes, all of them. Kawasaki’s largest entry in the cruiser class has got to be considered among them. It is, after all, the reigning King of Torque.

At 1,470cc (88 cubic inches) the Vulcan 88 is the largest production V-twin cruiser on the market today. It’s probably the longest, too. At 557 pounds dry with a 63.2 inch wheelbase, the big Kawasaki is the stretch limo of cruisers! Fortunately, it’s as comfy as one.

The huge seat is well contoured and pillowy soft, while the bars have a tall rise and reach back to the rider. Footpegs are mounted well forward, adding to the spacious feel. The long wheelbase allows for plenty of passenger room, and our resident pillion tester reported the thickly-padded seat and backrest to be among the most comfortable in the cruiser class.